A panel of clinicians and researchers at the 2024 ISTSS annual meeting discussed psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. Despite diverse views, they largely agreed the approach is an exciting possibility for patients who have not responded to existing evidence-based treatments. However, they also agreed that considerably more rigorous research is needed before definitive conclusions about its components and efficacy can be drawn. Ethical concerns, especially regarding accessibility, will pose a significant challenge for provider organizations.
Australian Vietnam veterans with chronic combat-related PTSD who received six weekly sessions of Imagery Rehearsal Therapy showed significant reductions in nightmare frequency and intensity that were maintained 12 months after treatment. Improvements in overall PTSD, depression, anxiety, and broader symptoms also persisted to the 12-month follow-up. The findings provide preliminary evidence that the positive effects of IRT on posttraumatic nightmares and related symptoms are durable over the longer term.